Strategy Update

Hospitality as Holy Welcome

"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it."  Hebrews 13:2

Hospitality in the Christian tradition is more than politeness; it is the posture of Christ. It’s the spirit that welcomes others into our midst as if we were welcoming Jesus himself. 

The Rt. Rev. Rowan Williams writes, “The Church exists to be the place where people can find that they are accepted before they are changed.”

That is the heart of a hospitable parish.

You don’t need a hospitality team to be a hospitable church. However, if done well, they can aid a culture of hospitality. 

Your parish does not need to be professional or polished in this, but it should be a warm and inviting place.

I witnessed a great example of this on Shrove Tuesday at the Parish of Gate Pā, where the parish held its annual pancake night. It was a warm and community-oriented event, where strangers were welcomed as part of the community. This does not happen by chance, but by priests modelling the way of Christ and setting the tone over some time.

At times, this can be a challenge for some church communities. Poor behaviour from members, cliques, and a lack of attention to guests can all leave a negative experience for the guest. When a church becomes akin to a country club with little thought for the outsider, we have missed the point somewhat.

In an increasingly disconnected and lonely world, the church can offer a genuinely attractive proposition: community, in and through Jesus. A community based on aroha, exhibiting grace and a generous welcome. A place of dignity, and connected relationships, built on peace and aiding joy.

We can all play a part in creating a warm parish culture.

How?

• Recognise there is always room in the family for one more. And the more unlike you and diverse, the better, as that displays the alternative community of Jesus.

• Keep your eyes open for the guest and those on the margins of your community. Go out of your way to make them welcome. It is better that you get out of your comfort zone than for them.

• Smile. Be warm. The first thirty seconds of any interaction set the tone.

• Introduce yourself.

• Learn their name.

• Leave space in the pew for a newcomer.

• Invite someone to morning tea, coffee or lunch.

• Be genuinely interested in them.

• Introduce them to another.

• Ensure that everyone is included. Make sure at the cuppa after the service or the event, people are not isolated and alone. Invite them into your group, your conversation.

• A phrase from the front, such as, "Welcome! We're so glad you're here." Can make a difference.

• Make your welcome visible, genuine, and personal.

I would love to hear your stories about what your parish does intentionally in this space. What have you found helpful? What are some challenges? You can email me at Graeme.brock@waiapu.com